Bajoquinto Standard Tuning: A Deep Dive

The Bajoquinto Standard tuning, defined by the open notes A1-D2-G2-C3-F3, provides the characteristic deep and resonant voice essential for traditional Mexican music, particularly in genres like Norteño and Tejano. This tuning forms the fundamental sound of the Bajo Quinto instrument, offering a rich harmonic foundation and a powerful rhythmic drive. Its consistent interval structure makes it both musically versatile and physically intuitive for players.

Technical Analysis

• Instrument Type: Bajo Quinto.
• Open Notes: From the lowest (thickest) to the highest (thinnest) string, the tuning is A1, D2, G2, C3, F3. These notes establish a deep, full sonic profile.
• Interval Structure: A defining feature of this tuning is its consistent interval of perfect fourths between all adjacent strings (A to D, D to G, G to C, C to F). This regularity greatly simplifies fretboard navigation and ensures that chord shapes are easily transferable across different string sets.
• Chordal Implications:
  • Open Chords: The open strings themselves (A-D-G-C-F) create a surprisingly rich Fmaj9sus4 voicing. This inherent harmonic complexity allows for full, resonant open-string accompaniment. The tuning also readily accommodates common open chords such as A minor, D minor, G major, C major, and F major, often with unique and pleasing voicings due to the low register.
  • Moveable Chords: The consistent perfect fourth intervals facilitate easy adoption of barre chords and other movable shapes, much like a bass guitar. This predictability makes it very accessible for players to construct complex harmonies and melodic lines across the entire fretboard with relative ease.

How to Tune

To achieve the Bajoquinto Standard tuning, precisely follow these string adjustments from a higher starting point:

• String 5 (Lowest A): Tune down 12 semitones (a full octave) to reach the note A1.
• String 4 (D): Tune down 12 semitones (a full octave) to reach the note D2.
• String 3 (G): Tune down 12 semitones (a full octave) to reach the note G2.
• String 2 (C): Tune down 11 semitones to reach the note C3.
• String 1 (Highest F): Tune down 11 semitones to reach the note F3.

Important String Gauge Note: Given the substantial downward tuning required (11-12 semitones for all strings), it is highly recommended to use appropriate, heavier gauge strings specifically designed for a Bajo Quinto. Attempting these drops with standard guitar string gauges can result in excessive slack, poor intonation, and potential damage to your instrument or strings.

Here are the notes for each string in Bajoquinto Standard tuning, from the lowest (thickest) to the highest (thinnest):

• String 5: A1
• String 4: D2
• String 3: G2
• String 2: C3
• String 1: F3